Aurora Inn

Dawson City – Ideas for Free Time

Whilst in Dawson, it’s hard not to imagine how the prospectors felt arriving here, driven by dreams of fortune. You can learn more about their lives through the many historic sites around the city. Explore the typical gold rush cabin of famous poet Robert W. Service, visit the Commissioner’s Residence built in 1901, or step aboard the SS Keno paddle steamer, which once served as the main mode of transportation for people and supplies in and out of the province. For a glimpse into Dawson’s transformation from a tent-town to the territorial capital, stop by Harrington’s Store, where historic photographs tell the story. Additionally, the Dawson City Museum delves into the gold rush era through a range of fascinating exhibits. A great place to begin your visit is the Dawson City Visitor Centre, where knowledgeable staff can help you plan your time and provide details on daily guided walks. For evening entertainment, don’t miss Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall, a Yukon legend. This recreated gold rush saloon features nightly, tongue-in-cheek can-can shows that become more risqué as the evening goes on, alongside table games and slot machines. While we don’t usually condone gambling, a small flutter here can make you feel like you’re living the chance-and-luck life of a Klondike gold prospector. Dawson is also one of the lucky spots to experience the Northern Lights in winter. Sometimes, they even appear as early as late August or September, so if you’re visiting at the end of the season, keep an eye on the night sky.